Floating the "50 Mile Riffle" is the best way to experience the world-renowned Madison River fishing that attracts anglers from around the world. Here are our Bozeman fly fishing guides' picks for the best fly fishing on the upper Madison River while floating.
Below Lyons Bridge FAS, float angling is permitted and is the preferred method for Madison River fishing between here and Ennis. The river is shallow and moves quickly, often referred to as the beginning of the 50-mile riffle.
Floating through the upper Madison River Valley, the scenery is spectacular, providing opportunities to see diverse wildlife and excellent views of Madison Range (east), Gravelly Range (west), and the Tobacco Root Range (northwest).
Obstacles to be aware of here include large glacial boulders which are scattered throughout the river and a couple of bridges - which can be dangerous at high water (over 2500 CFS).
Wild trout populations of Rainbow and Brown are very healthy here and provide consistent angling opportunities for much of the year.
Madison River fly fishing techniques vary with water conditions. A variety of boulders, ledges, and deep troughs make nymph fishing the year-round staple for anglers fishing here. Dry fly fishing during mid-day in the summer with attractor patterns can be extremely rewarding, Streamer fly fishing during high water in late June and then again in September produces some legendary Madison River Brown Trout each year.
Lyons Bridge is an excellent access for floating the upper sections of the Madison River. The ramps are located on the Western side of the river and the site has a large parking area with two concrete ramps. The Palisades FAS boat ramp is concrete and well-maintained, large enough for two launches at a time. There is a large parking lot as well as campgrounds along the river here.
Between Windy Point and McAtee Bridge offers some of the best fly fishing in Montana with dry flies during July and August. While floating is popular, there are opportunities for wading around numerous boulders, seams, and shelves that are best accessed on foot while fly fishing the upper Madison River.
As the valley widens, the breathtaking views underscore the area's Big Sky endorsement.
Despite the consistent riffle characteristic, the river's character evolves mile by mile. Deeper sections emerge, especially around the Ruby Creek Campgrounds, where anglers encounter large rock formations and deeper runs.
Fly fishing techniques vary with the season and conditions, but dry-dropper rigs are effective year-round, allowing anglers to target two water columns. This stretch also witnesses prolific Stonefly and Caddis hatches, particularly in early summer.
Below Windy Point, floaters must navigate under Wolf Creek Bridge, which stands low and becomes impassable at flows exceeding 2,500 CFS.
Windy Point is a well-maintained access site managed by the BLM located on the east side of the Madison River. The site provides one parking lot for launching and an overflow lot, bathrooms, and two easily navigable concrete boat ramps. McAtee Bridge FAS, located on the Western side of the Madison River, is a well-maintained concrete ramp with a large parking area.
The McAtee Bridge to Varney Bridge stretch offers anglers an excellent all-day float with minimal obstacles, aside from occasional rocks and boulders. The river's gradient gradually decreases, resulting in a more settled flow compared to sections above Ruby Creek Campground.
Public access is limited to one other ramp along this stretch, the Story Ditch FAS, a primitive dirt ramp just a mile north of McAtee that shortens the journey to Varney Bridge.
This scenic float provides unobstructed views of the Madison Range, with abundant birdlife such as Osprey, Golden Eagles, Bald Eagles, and Great Horned Owls.
The river features long riffles and shallow stretches, ideal for dry fly fishing with Mayflies, Caddis, and Terrestrial imitations, particularly around Cameron Flats. Dry-dropper rigs are standard fly fishing setups here, allowing anglers to target trout in shallow areas.
During periods of low insect activity, anglers rely on short-leash nymphing tactics to minimize snagging and breaking off flies.
McAtee Bridge FAS, located on the Western side of the Madison River, is a well-maintained concrete ramp with a large parking area. Varney Bridge FAS is located river right (East), just above the bridge making it difficult to miss. The area around the ramp can be pretty shallow and requires dragging over gravel to take out or launch. The ramp is concrete and is a bit steeper than others with slightly less room to maneuver a boat trailer.
As the Madison River approaches the town of Ennis, MT, its characteristics change significantly. The river begins to braid into channels, creating diverse habitats with undercut banks, deep holes, and large seams formed below islands, making it popular for both wade angling and floating.
Along the riverbank, cottonwoods provide protection during windy conditions and harbor abundant wildlife, including birds of prey, deer, and moose.
Despite the absence of whitewater, this stretch presents technical obstacles that require a confident rower to navigate. An unmarked channel known as the Spring Creek Channel separates from the main river just a mile below Varney FAS. This channel features a small diversion that requires portage at lower flows and is better suited for rafts, kayaks, or canoes.
Two other ramps, Eight Mile FAS and Burnt Tree FAS are located on the Western side of the river between Varney Bridge and the Ennis Ramp. When using these ramps, ensure that you follow the correct channels to avoid missing your takeout.
Fly fishing the Upper Madison on this stretch is best in April and September as trout actively migrate throughout this section during pre-spawn activities. Fly fishing the Madison River here favors advanced angling abilities due to the narrowing river, numerous snags, and constantly shifting targeted water.
Varney Bridge FAS is located river right (East), just above the bridge making it difficult to miss. The area around the ramp can be pretty shallow and requires dragging over gravel to take out or launch. The ramp is concrete and is a bit steeper than others with slightly less room to maneuver a boat trailer. Ennis (Town) ramp is a wide dirt ramp. This access site is well maintained with campgrounds and trails for wad anglers available. NOTE: This access site is often inaccessible until mid-March/April due to large ice jams that form through winter.
Experience Madison River fishing with the Fins and Feathers team of Bozeman fly fishing guides. We have been outfitting Montana fly fishing trips on the Madison River for over two decades. Whether you want to learn the nuances of fishing this legendary river or are just learning to fly fish, we custom tailor each day on the water around your skills and interests.
Learn more about our Madison River fly fishing trips or make a reservation online. Contact Us with additional questions or to inquire into availability.
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